New Delhi — This year’s Chhath Puja, dedicated to the Sun God, is expected to generate around ₹38,000 crore in trade across India, marking a 22.6 per cent increase from last year, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).
The four-day festival, celebrated with devotion and grandeur, has evolved into a major economic driver, supporting local trade, small-scale industries, and handcrafted Swadeshi products. Traditionally observed in Bihar, Chhath Puja now enjoys a pan-Indian presence, reflecting cultural unity and spiritual discipline.
An estimated 150 million people are participating in rituals this year, including fasting, holy baths, and prayers to the setting and rising sun. In Delhi alone, trade related to Chhath is projected to cross ₹6,000 crore, with around 1,500 ghats set up for devotees. Major ghats such as Yamuna Ghat, Kalindi Kunj, Wazirabad, and Geeta Colony have been elaborately decorated to welcome worshippers.
Markets nationwide are witnessing heavy footfall as devotees purchase essentials like bamboo baskets, earthen lamps, sugarcane, fruits, sweets, sarees, utensils, and puja items.
CAIT Secretary-General Praveen Khandelwal highlighted that Chhath Puja not only strengthens local economies and cottage industries but also promotes cleanliness, environmental awareness, self-discipline, and the government’s “Vocal for Local” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
With inputs from IANS